Poultry Farmers Urge Government Action on Rising Feed Costs

The Oyo State chapter of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) has called on the Federal, State, and Local Governments to intervene in the poultry sector to address the escalating cost of poultry feeds, which is impacting production costs and raising the prices of eggs and other poultry products.

Mr. Omidokun Oyekunle, the Chairman of PAN in Oyo State, made this appeal during the 2024 World Egg Day celebration in Ibadan on Friday. Represented by the Chairman of PAN Ibadan Zone II, Mr. Wole Olulade, Oyekunle highlighted the association’s ongoing challenges, emphasizing the need for government support, especially in the supply of critical inputs like maize and soybeans, which are key components of poultry feed.

“Maize, which we have control over in Nigeria, is currently 50% more expensive than in other parts of the world. If the government can support us with incentives or regulate the costs, it would help bring prices down and align us with global standards,” Oyekunle stated during a visit to the Ido Local Government Chairman, Mr. Sheriff Adeojo.

Oyekunle also stressed the importance of promoting local production of these essential feed ingredients to reduce reliance on imports and stabilize the industry.

The event included visits to local schools and a health center, where association members distributed eggs and educated the community on the health benefits of egg consumption, encouraging Nigerians to eat at least one egg daily for improved immunity and overall health.

In response, Mr. Bashir Adeshiyan, who represented the Ido Local Government Chairman, pledged the council’s commitment to supporting agriculture and ensuring that necessary inputs reach those who need them most, not just political figures.

The association’s efforts to promote egg consumption and reduce production costs were well received by the local community, with school and health officials expressing their gratitude.